[Milodon]

Hello folks.

I hope some of you wise heads may be able to help.
I have a 1991 900 SE, generally in sound condition apart from a sagging headlining and the occasional whiff of petrol and the following problems I would like to deal with:

The heater doesn't appear to work, but I suspect this is due to a broken heater control shaft (which I gather is quite common). Can this be changed without taking the dash out/apart? Any advice gratefully received.

Additionally, the temperature gauge stays firmly on Cold unless sitting stationary for a long period. I assume the thermostat is stuck in a fully open position. I would like to flush the cooling system so need to get the heater matrix open and change the thermostat at the same time.

I would be very grateful for any tips on how to best go about these jobs and if there is anything particularly 'Saaby' that I should be aware of!

Many thanks

Milodon

 

[aerojon]

Welcome to ss..

ref the stat,yes it's failed in the open postion.. http://www.thesaabsite.com/900old/FAQ--heating-%26-cooling-category--heater-control-valve-replacement.html

 

[Milodon]

Thanks, Aerojon, for both the welcome and the guidance. Sounds like a nice fiddly job - I think I'll save it for when it's not so blinking cold!

 

[Milodon]

I had a quick look through the left hand speaker. The connection from the knob to the heater valve is fine and the pinion winds the rack up and down - does this mean that the valve is OK and the problem is that the thermostat failed in the 3rd position i.e. flow to heater blocked, or is it still possible (or probable) that the valve is goosed?
If I don't have to change the valve, I would be happy to leave it well alone!

Many thanks

 

[slant4]

sounds like engine thermostat is jammed - its an easy job! Soak the bolts in plenty of wd40 and try doing them up a little first! Just in case the bolt is seized!

 

[Milodon]

Thanks Slant4. I've been soaking them in Plusgas and Blue Works (by WD40) Penetrant.
Since then the clutch slave cylinder has started leaking so it may end up in a garage anyway - I gather that's a fiddly job that often comes with extra problems!